Moi criticises political prayer rallies

By Beauttah Omanga

Retired President Moi has scoffed at open-air prayers for politicians terming the tendency a big joke to God.

The former President said meaningful and worthy prayers must be said in churches but not in political rallies or meet-the-people tours.

"Prayers to the Almighty God for anything are said inside churches. You cannot go by the roadside and pretend to be praying with a crowd of people. Amidst such crowds, chances are high that witches are also taking part and God cannot hear such prayers," said Moi.

He said any leader, including himself, should ask the clergy to pray for them inside churches.

"I also want the clergy to pray for me. I will ask them to do so but in church, not elsewhere. We must respect God our creator and stop mentioning His name in vain or simply for the sake of it," he said.

Moi told Christians to observe God’s desire in all their activities adding "it is such good behaviour in society that will attract more people to your churches."

Even if the former Head of State did not mention any politician, he was apparently referring to the recent controversial prayers rallies for the Ocampo four, especially for Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto.

The retired President was speaking at the weekend at AIC Soibei Church in Ravine Constituency. Cabinet Minister Musa Sirma and area MP Moses Lessonet accompanied him.

Sirma cautioned the clergy against participating in the prayers